Ruger Pit Bull Terrier Mix Conover, NC

Here's Ruger's information:

He is a pit bull mix, approximately 5-6 years old, 60 lbs, and neutered. He is chipped and up to date on all his shots. He was adopted from ICAS as a puppy, then surrendered in January because the owners said he was not good with their toddler.

He gets pretty stressed out in the kennel environment, so we haven't been able to place him up for general adoption. But after working with him for several weeks at the shelter and fostering him for a week, I have seen amazing improvement. He does very well being in a home, and is mostly housebroken (with the occasional accident). He also rides well in the car.

He does EXTREMELY well with other dogs, both large and small, male and female. We have used him as our "tester dog" on multiple occasions when behavior testing because he does so well with other dogs. He is playful but not overwhelming, and is comfortable letting another dog be dominant.

We haven't tested him with cats or children, but his previous owners did claim he did not do well with small children. He is also sometimes nervous when meeting strangers, so adults would be better for him.

He knows how to sit, and is learning how to shake, lay down, and stay. He is very food motivated and a fast learner. Once he gets comfortable with a person, he is definitely a "Velcro dog" - he wants to be with you as much as possible (including sleeping in the bed with you, if you will let him). We have been crate training him and he has also done well with the crate.

I have attached some photos and video of him! Since he arrived at the shelter, he has gone from cowering in the back of his kennel & growling at everyone, to approaching strangers on the sidewalk and wanting their attention! He is truly a wonderful dog and would benefit very much from a stable home with other dogs to keep him company.

Madison Dalrymple

Iredell Co. kennel tech